Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil sautéing vegetables and adding richness
– 1 white or yellow onion, diced
– 1 fennel bulb, diced
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes subtle heat and depth of flavor
– 8 cups chicken stock creates the soup’s flavorful base
– 16 ounces fresh tortellini
– 2 large handfuls fresh baby spinach
– 1 lemon, zest and juice (about 2 tablespoons juice)
– 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh dill or other fresh herbs, to taste bright, fresh finish to the soup
– Fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
– Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1-Start the Base: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, fennel, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
2-Add Aromatics: Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, and sauté for 2 more minutes, stirring frequently. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will become bitter.
3-Create the Broth: Pour in the chicken stock and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low.
4-Add the Main Components: Add the tortellini, spinach, lemon zest and juice, and fresh dill. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are cooked through. This usually takes 5-7 minutes, depending on your tortellini.
5-Final Seasoning: Taste and season with salt, pepper, and additional dill or lemon juice if needed. The lemon flavor should be bright but not overwhelming.
6-Finish with Cheese: Serve warm with plenty of freshly-grated Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese will melt into the hot soup, adding a savory, salty element that balances the bright lemon.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🛒 Use fresh tortellini for best texture; adjust liquid and cooking time if using dried.
🌱 Substitute spinach with kale or collard greens for variety.
🥣 Simmer a Parmesan rind with broth for richer flavor, and add protein like sausage or chicken if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing and simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving